Video Synchronization via Timing Packets in Asynchronous Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Asynchronous switched networks do not inherently maintain frame synchronization for video streams, leading to delays and jitter issues when distributing video data to multiple receivers, which requires additional infrastructure to synchronize decoder clocks with encoder clocks.
Innovation Solution
A method to synchronize the phase of a local image synchronization signal generator with a reference image synchronization signal generator by sending timing packets over the network, allowing adjustment of image sync pulses without requiring additional infrastructure, and using current reference clock data to reduce processing delays and jitter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If video data is distributed over an asynchronous switched network, then network flexibility and scalability are improved, but frame synchronization between video streams deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces timing packets as an intermediary carrier that transports reference timing information through the asynchronous network. These packets contain timestamps and synchronization data that enable receiving devices to reconstruct frame timing relationships despite the network's asynchronous nature, thus maintaining synchronization without compromising network flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the synchronization problem by changing from attempting to maintain constant time intervals to using variable time stamps that adapt to network conditions. By encoding timing information as parameters within packets and using flexible timestamping mechanisms, the system accommodates asynchronous transmission while preserving frame synchronization
2Stability of the object's composition
If separate infrastructure is added to synchronize decoder clocks with encoder clocks, then frame synchronization is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing network infrastructure universal by enabling it to carry both video data and synchronization timing information through the same packet-switched channels. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated synchronization networks, reducing infrastructure complexity while maintaining synchronization capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables receiving devices to perform self-synchronization by extracting timing information from received video packets and autonomously adjusting their local clocks. This eliminates the need for external centralized clock distribution infrastructure, simplifying the overall system while achieving frame synchronization
Data Source
AI summary
A method of synchronizing the phase of a local image synchronization signal generator of a local video data processor in communication with an asynchronous switched packet network to the phase of a reference image synchronization signal generator of a reference video data processor also coupled to the network, the local and reference processors having respective clocks, the reference and local image synchronization signal generators generating periodic image synchronization signals in synchronism with the reference and local clocks respectively comprises the steps of:frequency synchronizing the local and reference clocks;the reference video data processor sending, via the network, to the local data processor an image timing packet providing reference image synchronization data indicating the difference in timing, measured with respect to the reference processor's clock, between the time at which the image timing packet is launched onto the network and the time of production of a reference image synchronization signal; andthe local processor controlling the timing of the production of the local image synchronization signal in dependence on the reference image synchronization data and the time of arrival of the timing packet.